What are the responsibilities and job description for the Juvenile Services Specialist position at City of Chesapeake?
Please note: Shift schedule is subject to change based on operational needs.
Employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-term department needs and/or City-wide emergencies. Emergency operations support work and work locations may be outside of normal job duties.
Starting pay depending on qualifications and experience
What You’ll Do:
- Supervise and engage youth residents using effective behavioral management strategies
- Provide individual and group counseling to support growth and accountability
- Maintain a safe, structured environment while responding confidently in crisis situations
- Document daily activities, incidents, and case updates with accuracy
- Transport residents to court, appointments, and approved activities
- Plan and lead recreational and developmental programs
- Conduct room checks, searches, and nightly supervision routines
- Collaborate with staff, including assisting medical personnel when needed
- Play a critical role in maintaining safety—including physical intervention when required
- Knowledge of counseling techniques, especially with at-risk or justice-involved youth
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust while maintaining boundaries
- Sound judgment and composure in high-pressure situations
- A team-first mindset and commitment to youth development
- Experience in juvenile justice, trauma-informed care, or residential settings is a plus
The City of Chesapeake offers an exceptional range of benefits.
Experience: In addition to satisfying the vocational/educational standard, this class requires a minimum of six months of related, full-time equivalent experience. Preferred experience participating in group counseling sessions in a group home, detention center, or non-secure residential setting.
Special Certifications and Licenses: Depending on position, may require a valid driver’s license and a driving record that is in compliance with City Driving Standards. Requires Handle With Care, CPR, and First Aid certifications within 45 days of hire.
Special Requirements: Employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-term department needs and/or City-wide emergencies. Emergency operations support work and work locations may be outside of normal job duties.
- General knowledge of the techniques and means of interviewing;
- Some knowledge of the fundamental principles of adolescent psychology;
- Thorough knowledge of the laws and procedures related to juvenile detainees;
- Ability to counsel and conduct interviews of a personal, sensitive nature;
- Ability to communicate complex social ideas effectively, orally and in writing; and possess excellent computer skills.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city agency officials, court personnel, co-workers, residents, and residents’ parents or guardians.
ADA Checklist
C = Continuously- 2/3 or more of the time. F = Frequently- From 1/3 to 2/3 of the time. O = Occasionally- Up to 1/3 of the time. R = Rarely- Less than 1 hour per week. N = Never- Never occurs.
D = Daily W = Several Times Per Week M = Several Times Per Month S = Seasonally N = Never
D = Daily W = Several Times Per Week M = Several Times Per Month S = Seasonally N = Never
C = Continuously- 2/3 or more of the time. F = Frequently- From 1/3 to 2/3 of the time. O = Occasionally- Up to 1/3 of the time. R = Rarely- Less than 1 hour per week. N = Never- Never occurs.
Professional References
Please provide contact information for professional references.
Salary : $45,852 - $60,754